Sports Specific Training

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC and Push Fitness owner, Daniel Alvarado discuss the importance of weight loss and how motivation is one of the fundamental elements to achieve overall health and wellness.

Weight Loss How To Continue The Effort?

Dr. Alex Jimenez, health coach Kenna Vaughn, chief editor Astrid Ornelas discuss metabolic syndrome from a different point of view as well as, different nutraceuticals to combat inflammation.

Metabolic Syndrome and Inflammation

Reaching, twisting, walking, and driving are everyday activities that require upper and lower back strength. An aching back can easily affect daily activities, generate frustration, anger, and affect all-around health. The more back muscle strength an individual has, the more they can accomplish far more without injury. Immense power is not required to protect the body from a back injury. All that is needed is regular, consistent physical activity and exercise. A balance of body strength is vital for preventing injury. However, overdoing one fitness exercise or physical activity can imbalance musculature, leading to injury. Because the back/spine is the central part of the body, complete and proper care is necessary for optimal health and wellness. For individuals experiencing sore, aching, and tired muscles, here are some exercises that will help in the process.

Alternating Arm and Leg Extensions

Alternating extensions help build strength and coordination in the core areas. The back muscles increase their efficiency by creating muscle memory that supports the work shared by all the torso muscles. Upper and lower back muscles must work together to maintain a healthy balance and not overwork each other, causing strain and fatigue.

• Start by placing hands and knees on the floor with the head directly between shoulders and facing toward the floor.
• Feet are directly in line behind the buttocks and resting on the floor.
• Hips and shoulders rest above the knees and hands.
• Raise the right hand straight ahead with the arm at full length.
• At the time same time, raise the left leg straight behind the body.
• Try to keep the arm and leg as straight as possible.
• Hold for 10 seconds.
• Switch sides.
• Repeat three to eight times, depending on strength level.
• If it is difficult, a modified option is to raise the arm and leg separately.

Plank Hold

These can help build back muscles and strengthen the arms, legs, and the front torso area. Plank holds are a recommended starting point. Plank holds can be done on the elbows, palms of the hands, or closed fist hands. The key is to keep the shoulders, hips, and ankles straight like a wood plank parallel to the floor.

• Place hands and feet directly on the floor like doing a push–up.
• Toes should be on the floor.
• Keep the abdominals tight and buttocks lifted to prevent straining the lower back.
• Face straight down.
• Hold for a count of 10.
• Repeat three times.
• For those with an aching back, keeping the hips level with the shoulders could be challenging at the beginning.
• With practice, it will become easier; then, the individual is recommended to increase the length of time until 30 seconds is achieved.
• Then increase the challenge to try more than three repetitions.
• A modification for beginners is to start with the body resting on the floor, stomach down.
• Then raise the body into the start position from the floor.

Hip Raises

Hip raises help to strengthen the lower back muscles to unite and support the lower half of the body. Training the body to work cooperatively is critical for reducing the aching and pain from muscle imbalance.

• Rest the body flat on the floor, facing upward.
• Place the hands flat at the body's sides.
• Knees should be about shoulder-width apart.
• Keep the feet flat on the floor
• Pull the feet toward the buttocks.
• Look straight up.
• Raise the hips as high as possible while pressing down with the hands.
• Hold for 10 seconds.
• Complete five to eight reps.

Cross Body Standing Lateral Arm Raises

Lateral raises or side lateral raises help strengthen and tone the shoulder muscles and the upper back muscles.

• Begin with a single one-pound weight.
• Face forward.
• Stand with the feet shoulder-width apart.
• Bring the weight to rest near the left hip bone.
• Gently raise the weight across the body to arrive just above the right side with the arm at full length.
• Make sure that shoulders and hips are stationary and that only the arms move. Do not twist.
• Hold for 10 seconds.
• Repeat three to eight times.
• Switch sides.
• Modification can be done by sitting in a comfortable chair with proper posture in a chair instead of standing.
• If weights are too challenging to work with initially, complete the exercise with only the hands placed with the palms flat and together.

Aerobic Activity

This helps circulate blood throughout the body, helping to reduce muscle soreness. A few gentle and aerobic activities can include:

• Brisk walking.
• Stair climbing.
• Bicycling, elliptical, or rowing machine workout.
• Physical activity that keeps blood moving throughout the body. Examples include yoga, gardening, and dancing.

While the back is healing, go at a gentle even pace for any activity. Jerking and quickly stopping can be hard on joints and discs. When injured, the other muscles try to compensate to avoid causing a flare-up that could worsen the injury and/or create a new injury.

Aching Back Muscles

Strength-building exercises are great for preventing injury and avoiding re-injury. However, avoid overreaching or overstretching with any of the activities. Continuous aching or painful back muscles could indicate something else is occurring that could be:

• A pinched nerve.
• Shifted/misaligned discs.
• Disc herniation.
• The beginning of an arthritic condition causing inflammation.
• Back muscle tear/s.
• Pregnancy.

Body Composition

Sarcopenia - Loss of Skeletal Muscle Mass and Strenght Causes

Decreased Physical Activity

• Physical inactivity is one of the primary contributors to sarcopenia.
• Sedentariness can exacerbate the effects of sarcopenia.
• Regular resistance exercise can help maintain muscle mass and build muscular strength.

Decrease in motor neurons

• Aging is accompanied by a loss of motor neurons caused by cell death. 
• This can lead to a decrease in muscle fibers and size.
• This decrease leads to:
• Impaired performance
• Reduced functional capacity
• Decreased ability to perform everyday tasks.

Increase in Pro-inflammatory Cytokines

• Poor diet and exercise also promote the storage of visceral fat.
• This type of fat tissue produces pro-inflammatory cytokines.
• This can accelerate muscle breakdown.
• Obesity and muscle weakness are associated with high levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

General Disclaimer *

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional, licensed physician, and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request.

We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

References

Alfuth, M, and D Cornely. “Chronischer lumbaler Rückenschmerz : Vergleich zwischen Mobilisationstraining und Training der rumpfstabilisierenden Muskulatur” [Chronic low back pain : Comparison of mobilization and core stability exercises]. Der Orthopade vol. 45,7 (2016): 579-90. doi:10.1007/s00132-016-3233-1

Kim, Beomryong, and Jongeun Yim. "Core Stability and Hip Exercises Improve Physical Function and Activity in Patients with Non-Specific Low Back Pain: A Randomized Controlled Trial." The Tohoku journal of experimental medicine vol. 251,3 (2020): 193-206. doi:10.1620/tjem.251.193

Smith, Benjamin E et al. "An update of stabilization exercises for low back pain: a systematic review with meta-analysis." BMC musculoskeletal disorders vol. 15 416. 9 Dec. 2014, doi:10.1186/1471-2474-15-416

Suh, Jee Hyun et al. "The effect of lumbar stabilization and walking exercises on chronic low back pain: A randomized controlled trial." Medicine vol. 98,26 (2019): e16173. doi:10.1097/MD.0000000000016173

We see it on all types of athletes nowadays. They are wearing tape that looks like it's for an injury. It is for injuries, but it can also be used as a preventative measure to avoid injuries. It is known as Kinesiology, Kinesio, KT, and elastic tape. It reduces swelling, increases mobility, and expedites recovery. It can be beneficial with back soreness/pain.

Tape

When it comes to Kinesio tape for back pain, medical professionals reported the tape is most effective when incorporated with other pain treatments. A study found that taping various areas of the body safely relieved knee pain and reduced the need for pharmacological treatment for knee osteoarthritis. It is applied to the body to support a joint, improve circulation, or provide proprioception feedback to the brain. The tape can help increase awareness of a specific painful area, reminding the individual to maintain proper posture and not move in a way that causes pain. Online videos can teach how to tape a particular area of the body. Examples include:

• Kinesiology tape for sciatica pain
• Kinesiology tape lower back pain

Each joint and muscle requires various tapings or different patterns and directions. Applying the tape to body areas that an individual can reach and access, like the knee and ankle, can be simple. But it can be a challenge to apply it to the shoulder or back. This is when a physical therapist, chiropractor, medical clinician, partner, family member, or friend can help with the application. Kinesiology tape is designed to adhere for an average of three to four days, even when bathing.

Benefits

Kinesio taping for low back pain with help should be done in a shortened muscle position, meaning the person helping should apply the tape while the person experiencing back pain stands up straight. The taping can be two stripes going up and down, or it can be done with strips fanning out towards the buttocks. This gives support to the spine/back muscles and decreases pain.

Recovery and Prevention

Recovery from a spine condition or injury prevention, kinesiology tape can be used without any risk. It can help reduce pain, improve circulation, and provide muscle support. For a minor sprain or strain, the tape could help on its own. But for an individual experiencing severe back pain, it is recommended to seek professional medical care along with a stretching and strengthening regimen. The tape is recommended to be used as part of a complete treatment plan.

Body Composition

Five-Day Training Plan

The idea of training five times a week can be pretty intimidating. This is not about pushing yourself to your breaking point Monday through Friday. The objective of working out this frequently is about exercising normally, not like a professional athlete. That's why many individuals divide up the areas they work out each day. Particular attention is given to one muscle group or system, letting the others rest and recover. This workout strategy is called a split and is favored by the bodybuilding community. Five-day splits are utilized to target different major muscle group/s every day. A standard training plan includes:

Monday

• Back
• Biceps

Tuesday

• Chest
• Triceps

Wednesday

• Shoulders
• Delts

Thursday

• Legs
• Lower Back

Friday

• Biceps
• Triceps

This is just one of the many programs that trainers, athletes, and fitness individuals have developed. Some individuals replace shoulders day with cardio; some do abs every day; it depends on what fitness goal the individual is going for.

General Disclaimer *

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional, licensed physician, and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request.

We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

References

Journal of Bodywork and Movement Therapies. (April 2016) "Kinesio taping for chronic low back pain: A systematic review" https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27634093/

Therapeutic Advances in Musculoskeletal Disease. (August 2019) "The effectiveness of Kinesio Taping® for pain management in knee osteoarthritis: a randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trial" https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/full/10.1177/1759720X19869135

What are the potential benefits for back pain?: Asian Journal of Sports Medicine. (June 2015) "Low Back Pain in Athletes" https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4592766/

Finding the right physical activity that elevates heart rate and maintains it for 30 minutes a day increases the amount of oxygen delivered to the heart, brain, and muscles. Some form of aerobic activity will keep individuals moving in a healthy direction. ​This benefits the:

• Heart
• Muscles
• Mood
• Self-esteem
• Amount of energy

It helps to lower:

• Blood pressure
• Cholesterol
• Blood sugar
• Body fat
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Fatigue

Finding What Works For You

Doctors and health experts agree that individuals need to perform normal/moderate activity balanced with vigorous/intense activity. Some ideas for both types include:

Moderate Intensity Activities

General moderate exercises:

• Brisk walking
• Light to moderate calisthenics
• Low-impact aerobics
• Aerobic trampoline exercises
• Weight lifting
• Bodybuilding
• Light-moderate workouts on Nautilus, Universal machines, or rowing machine

Many activities in the moderate-intensity list can be increased to a vigorous level by doing them faster or harder.

Vigorous Intensity Activities

General vigorous exercises:

• Walking uphill
• Jogging
• Running
• Heavy calisthenics
• High impact aerobics
• Jumping rope
• Stair-climber
• Skiing machine
• Stationary bicycling

Outdoor Moderate Activities

Moderate exercises:

• Children's games - hopscotch, 4-square, and dodge ball
• Fishing
• Throwing a Frisbee
• Playground equipment exercises

Outdoor vigorous activities:

Vigorous exercises:

• Sports - soccer, field hockey, tennis, basketball, flag football, volleyball
• Hiking
• Cycling
• Mountain biking
• Skating and skateboarding
• Horseback riding

House and Yard Work/Chores

Moderate house and yard work exercises:

• Sweeping
• Vacuuming
• Mopping
• Washing the car by hand
• Sweeping the garage, walkways, sidewalk, or patio
• Mowing the lawn
• Raking the lawn
• Labor intense gardening

Vigorous house and yard work exercises:

• Shoveling dirt, rocks, etc
• Carrying groceries upstairs
• Carrying boxes 
• Moving furniture
• Cleaning and organizing the house

Mix it up

Finding the activities that work for you are important. But mix them up, so you don't get bored and tired of them. For example, if getting bored with walking, try a light aerobics class, dancing, or something similar.

• Try new routes for walking and biking.
• Change the room for exercising or stretching.
• Exercise at different times, so it doesn't just become a chore.
• Mix up the amount of time exercising. Do a full 30 minute or longer workout one day, then break the workout into smaller 15, 10, 5-minute workouts other days.
• Having options allows you to pick and choose what suits your mood and schedule.

Job Physical Activity

If job occupation includes sitting for long periods, try adding short bursts of activity throughout the day:

• If the commute permits, walk, jog, or bicycle to work.
• Park several blocks away or the furthest in the parking lot to get some walking in.
• Use the stairs instead of the elevator for a few floors.
• Get coffee or use the bathroom on another floor using the stairs the farthest from the office.
• Need to talk to a coworker, take a walk to their office or station instead of e-mail or phone.
• Finding breaks to take quick walks and stretch out.

Get Involved In Competition

Competition can motivate individuals as it:

• Requires specific and measurable goals to work toward. An example could be training to walk or run a race.
• Learning the details of an event and preparing/training can generate or restore the excitement and challenge of the activity.
• Instead of entering a competition, an individual can help with organizing and planning. This can provide friendship with other individuals interested in the same activity that can lead to working out together and staying motivated.

CrossFit Training

CrossFit training is a combination of various exercises to work out various muscle groups. CrossFit can be beneficial because:

• It prevents boredom by providing a variety of workouts.
• It helps maintain balance among various muscle groups.
• For example, runners that have powerful leg muscles cross-train to strengthen the upper body.
• It reduces the risk of injuries because the combination of exercises allows muscles to recover while working out a different set of muscles.

Whatever the case, it's all about finding what works for you. But the objective is to keep the body moving to maintain overall health.

Body Composition

Why the brain needs sugar?

The brain needs half of the body's energy supply because of its complex system. The brain needs glucose for brain cell energy. As neurons cannot store energy, they need a constant fuel supply to function properly. The ability to think, learn and recall information is connected with the body's glucose levels. When blood glucose levels are low, the ability to think clearly is slowed down as the production of neurotransmitters is reduced, leading to communication disruption. Natural sugars can increase brain health for optimal functioning. When consuming naturally occurring sugar like apples and bananas, sugar is released incrementally into the bloodstream. This maintains energy levels at a steady pace, and the body does not crave more sugar.

General Disclaimer *

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional, licensed physician, and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request.

We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

References

Berg JM, Tymoczko JL, Stryer L. Biochemistry. 5th edition. New York: W H Freeman; 2002. Section 30.2, Each Organ Has a Unique Metabolic Profile. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK22436/

Ainsworth BE, et al. (2011). Compendium of Physical Activities Tracking Guide. Columbia, SC: Prevention Research Center, Norman J. Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina. Available online: http://prevention.sph.sc.edu/tools/compendium.htm.

Tennis is a sport that can be enjoyed by individuals of all ages and provides optimal physical activity and cardiovascular exercise. Although it can be leisurely, it does require being light on the feet with quick, starting, stopping, turning, and twisting movements for those new to playing tennis. If back pain is present, playing can be difficult. One study showed almost 40% of tennis players missed one or more tournaments because of low back pain/problems. A 2016 study found that tennis players with low back pain have difficulty moving their muscles with ease.

Know and Understand the Risks

Playing tennis has its risks when it comes to back pain. What can bring on or worsen back pain are the repetitive motions, like swinging, serving, volleying, and the uneven force placed on the body. This force is the power and momentum that is used for certain swings like serving and forehands. What happens is it does not evenly distribute through the body, increasing the potential to cause strains and sprains. For example, the serving motion repeatedly puts a hyperextension force through the spine. The result is overuse injuries.

Preparation

No one wants to injure their back for those new to tennis and those who have been playing for years. This is where off-court conditioning comes in and preventive measures. This includes:

• Work on endurance and stamina
• Strengthen the core muscles without aggravating the back
• Ease into playing 
• Don't play for too long when starting or multiple days in a row
• Gradually increase the frequency and intensity
• Focus on the fundamental skills rather than trying to blast the ball like the pros.
• Trying to smash the ball too soon can result in a rotator cuff injury.

Stay Aware of Your Body

Playing tennis can cause an individual to become distracted; however, it’s crucial to be mindful of the body and what's going on.

• Pay attention to the heat.
• Humidity
• Proper rest between games
• Hydration to prevent muscle cramping
• Stretching before and after playing
• Warming up and cooling down
• Take a break and stretch out if pain symptoms present.
• Never play through the pain that could result in worsening or creating new injuries.
• Pay attention to proper form.
• Apply modifications to prevent and avoid worsened back pain. This could be serving more simply or hitting around a stroke that generates pain symptoms.

Cooling Down

After a match, rehydrate the body and cool down. This could be a little walking around the court, if possible getting in a pool or water splash park, and let the musculoskeletal system recover. Do some spinal exercises afterward, like yoga poses. Applying anti-inflammatory creams or gels can help keep the muscles loose and promote circulation. Anti-inflammatory foods can help with pain and inflammation. 

Spinal Conditions

There are individuals with spinal conditions that should not play tennis. These include:

• Acute disc herniation
• Active bone injury/s - fractures and stress fractures
• Spinal instability - spondylolisthesis
• Post-spine surgery
• A spinal condition involving nerves and/or the spinal cord

Consult a doctor before adding tennis to a physical regimen.  Tennis is an aerobic activity that has several benefits. It keeps the body physically active for mental and physical wellness. The hormones released can help mitigate musculoskeletal pain and negative emotions like depression and anxiety that can come from experiencing back pain.

Body Composition

Magnesium

Magnesium supports a healthy immune system. It helps maintain:

• Healthy bone structure
• Muscle function
• Insulin levels
• Facilitates the body with energy
• Acts as a calcium blocker
• Reduces cramping
• Aids muscle relaxation after exercise/physical activity

Magnesium is essential in several biochemical reactions; a slight deficiency can increase cardiovascular disease risk. Deficiency can also lead to an increased risk of insulin resistance. Magnesium-rich foods are also high fiber foods. Dietary fiber helps with:

• Digestion
• Helps control weight
• Reduces cholesterol
• Stabilizes blood sugar

Recommended sources of Magnesium include:

• Green vegetables - spinach, swiss chard, and turnip greens
• Nuts - almonds and cashews
• Seeds
• Legumes
• Cocoa

General Disclaimer *

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request.

We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

References

Clinics in Sports Medicine. (April 1988) “Low back pain in the competitive tennis player.” https://europepmc.org/article/med/2968850

Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport. (April 2016) “Trunk muscle activation, fatigue and low back pain in tennis players” https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1440244015000845

Jahnen-Dechent, Wilhelm, and Markus Ketteler. “Magnesium basics.” Clinical kidney journal vol. 5,Suppl 1 (2012): i3-i14. doi:10.1093/ndtplus/sfr163

Katz, David L et al. “Cocoa and chocolate in human health and disease.” Antioxidants & redox signaling vol. 15,10 (2011): 2779-811. doi:10.1089/ars.2010.3697

Wang, Jinsong, et al. “Dietary magnesium intake improves insulin resistance among non-diabetic individuals with metabolic syndrome participating in a dietary trial.” Nutrients vol. 5,10 3910-9. 27 Sep. 2013, doi:10.3390/nu5103910

Here are a few recommended stretches and exercises for relieving herniated disc symptoms. The vertebrae are the small bones that make up the spine. They have cushion discs between each one. These are the intervertebral discs and are the body’s shock absorbers. The discs can be thought of as small balloons that are filled with an elastic gel-type material. There are twenty-three of these cushions.

Functioning as the body’s shock absorbers transferring various forces, weight, and stress from vertebra to vertebra, so that no one is overburdened taking on all the impact the body goes through. But like any machine, the discs can wear down over time, and sustain injury. When this happens the cushioning gel can leak out and press on the nerve roots emerging from the spine. This type of injury is a herniated disc.

Herniated Disc Treatment

A herniated disc can lose its height because of fluid and water loss. This loss affects the bone structures bringing them closer together affecting the ligaments that connect each segment. The ligaments become loose and do not provide the same stability. Ligaments cannot be strengthened with exercise making it more important to strengthen the muscles around the spine to make up for this stability loss. 

Depending on the severity of the injury, the displaced disc can cause pressure to build upon the nerves, resulting in pain and other discomforts. This comes from the loss of the disc's cushion causing the vertebrae to rub against each other. Stretches and exercises designed for herniated discs can work in conjunction with conservative treatment to relieve the pain and discomfort.

Stretches and Exercises for Pain Relief

Consult a medical spine specialist/chiropractor before beginning a stretch and exercise regimen. This is because the herniation can become worse or additional injury/s can occur without proper instruction. Once the injury and clinical considerations have been addressed, gentle stretches and exercises can help reduce the pain and other symptoms. Strengthening the back and hamstring muscles reduces pressure on the spinal column helping to prevent pain and promotes healing by:

• Increasing blood flow to the spine
• Building strength to support the spinal muscles
• Decreases stress on the spine
• Helps relieve the pain
• Improves abnormal postures and awkward body positions

Equipment is not necessary but there are few items that can help the process.

• Yoga mat for hard floors
• A resistance band, a towel will work
• Yoga blocks
• Stable upright chair
• Stopwatch/Timer a phone timer will work

Cervical/Neck Stretches and Exercises

A herniated disc in the neck is usually caused by a forward head posture and a swayback or excessive curvature of the spine.

Isometric hold

• Sit straight
• Relax the shoulders
• Place one hand on the forehead
• Push head into the hand without moving the head
• Hold for 5 to 15 seconds.
• Repeat 15 times

Chin tuck

• Lie on your back on a flat surface
• Place arms at sides
• Tuck the chin in and down toward the chest until a stretch is felt
• Hold for 5 to 10 seconds
• Repeat 15 to 20 times

Lumbar/Low Back Stretches and Exercises

Back flexion stretch

This stretch extends the back muscles to relieve low back pain.

• Lie flat on your back
• Pull the knees toward the chest and wrap your arms around the knees
• Lift head straight up off the floor until there is a stretch across the mid and low back
• Hold for 10 seconds
• Repeat 5 to 10 times

Piriformis stretch

This stretches the small muscle in the buttocks helping to relieve low back pain and helps with sciatica.

• Lie flat on your back on the floor or yoga mat
• Bend the knees
• Plant feet on the floor
• Pick up one leg and rest the ankle on the other leg’s bent knee
• Reach one arm through the leg and use both hands to grasp the bent leg
• Pull the leg toward the chest until there is a stretch in the buttock
• Hold for 30 seconds
• Repeat on the other leg

Prone extension stretch

This stretch helps reposition the disc back to its proper position, expediting the healing process. Start slowly and if pain presents, stop immediately.

• Lie face down on the floor or yoga mat
• Place the forearms on the floor next to the body
• The elbows should be at a 45- degree angle
• Slowly prop the body up, being sure to keep the hips on the floor
• Keep pressing upward until the elbows are at a 90-degree angle
• Hold the position for 10-15 seconds
• Return to  starting position
• Repeat the stretch 10 times
• Gradually increase the upward position hold time until it can be maintained for 30 seconds

Performing these stretches and exercises or similar types will help with herniated injury recovery and prevent worsening or creating new injuries.

Body Composition

Benefits of yoga

Yoga benefits mental and physical health. Yoga helps improve individual physical health. Specific poses can help:

• Improve balance
• Flexibility
• Build/Tone muscle
• Prevent injury
• Improve sense of well-being

Yoga stretches the muscles while relieving physical and emotional stress. Practicing yoga regularly can prevent obesity, and reduce the risk of developing metabolic syndrome. Yoga can help decrease leptin which is a hormone that helps control appetite. This is important for individuals going through chronic stress who are twice as likely to develop metabolic syndrome. 

Disclaimer

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional, licensed physician, and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the musculoskeletal system’s injuries or disorders. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, CTG*
email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com
phone: 915-850-0900
Licensed in Texas & New Mexico

References

Chiropractic treatment and physical therapy are treatment methods/approaches that are conservative, non-invasive, and are both practical options. Both address health concerns, like various types of pain, automobile, work, sports, and personal injuries. Both are focused on helping individuals achieve long-term results and maintain health.

Chiropractic and physical therapy are usually done in combination, as they complement one another. There are benefits and similarities between the two treatment options. Here are some general guidelines to decide which treatment option is best for your needs.

Primary symptoms

Chiropractors are known for the ability to provide quick relief to individuals dealing with pain and stiffness in the joints, particularly the spine. They are experts in spinal realignment and proper posture. If flexibility is limited or the joints are locking up, a chiropractor is the recommended choice.

Physical therapists or PTs are the experts in body biomechanics and soft tissue injuries. If an individual finds themselves moving differently because of pain or injury, training and exercise will help movement and maximum recovery.

Treatment style

Chiropractors follow a meticulous expert-based protocol for achieving the best results. They provide a hands-on approach to treatment that requires regular follow-ups and maintenance. This is an approach that some individuals prefer. Physical therapy treatment/rehabilitation programs are typically short-term. The average treatment usually lasts only 12 weeks. A physical therapist's primary objective is to provide a fundamental understanding of how to move properly and self-manage symptoms for the long term. This usually includes a balanced exercise program.

Insurance coverage

Insurance plans vary in what is covered. The first step is to see what an individual's insurance will cover. Benefits can be found online or by calling a representative to see how to get the care/treatment needed. Most plans cover some form of physical therapy. Chiropractic is also usually covered by insurance providers. Skipping the insurance can also be done with chiropractic clinics providing affordable options.

Options

There is no clear-cut answer as to which to see. A physical therapist or chiropractor. Individuals should follow a doctor's recommendations as to which treatment type would benefit them. If no recommendations have been given then take a look at a clinic’s website to see what they are about. Fortunately, many chiropractic clinics include physical therapists as part of their medical team. Both chiropractic and physical therapists provide dynamic benefits for increasing and maintaining overall health.

Body Composition

Hydration Guidelines

Drink according to thirst

The body knows when it needs water. Therefore drink when you are thirsty, not before. An adequate fluid intake should be timed according to feelings of thirst.

Estimate hourly sweat loss

Those that exercise or engage in regular physical activities for prolonged periods should weigh themselves before engaging in the exercise/activity. Then drink according to thirst as the event goes on, then weigh yourself after the activity. The goal is to maintain the same weight or be slightly less. If an individual weighs more than what they drank, then they drank too much.

Excess water consumption

If an individual is not thirsty, the recommendation is to not drink water in excess. Nausea and even vomiting could ensue. A simple indicator to determine if enough water is being consumed is to check urine color. If it is colorless or slightly yellow then an individual is drinking enough water.

Disclaimer

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional, licensed physician, and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the musculoskeletal system’s injuries or disorders. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP, CIFM, CTG*
email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com
phone: 915-850-0900
Licensed in Texas & New Mexico

References

American Association of Physical Therapists. www.apta.org

Cherkin, DC et al. “A comparison of physical therapy, chiropractic manipulation, and provision of an educational booklet for the treatment of patients with low back pain.” The New England journal of medicine vol. 339,15 (1998): 1021-9.

doi:10.1056/NEJM199810083391502

Fritz, Julie M. “Physical therapy in a value-based healthcare world.” The Journal of orthopedic and sports physical therapy vol. 42,1 (2012): 1-2. doi:10.2519/jospt.2012.0101

Shrier I. Does stretching help prevent injuries? Evidence-based Sports Medicine. Williston, VT: BMJ Books; 2002.

A chiropractic sports massage will reduce the risk of injury, improve flexibility, and the circulatory system. A chiropractic sports massage is a focused treatment that is designed for biomechanical needs and physical demands of individuals that regularly engage in sports/physical athletic activities like:

• Running
• Gym workouts
• CrossFit
• Football
• Basketball
• Raquetball
• Skating
• Cycling
• Soccer
• Yoga

Individuals that stress their body's to the limits through physical activities can benefit from a chiropractic sports massage.

A chiropractic sports massage is not like a spa massage

A chiropractic sports massage is not like a spa massage. There are spa massages for helping individuals unwind and relax. And then there is a massage for healing sore muscles, tendons, ligaments after an intense game, workout, etc. This type of massage helps loosen the muscles/connecting tissues and allows the body to heal a lot quicker. This is done by increasing the blood and nerve circulation around the muscles.

Breaks down scar tissue

For individuals with previous injuries, a sports massage will help break down scar tissue that has developed. This allows for more flexibility and an increase in the muscles' function.

More than a rubdown

The massage therapist might be an athlete or has extensive training in sports injury therapy. A sports massage is more than just a rubdown. Treatment depends on the individual's favorite sporting activity/s along with the number and severity of the injury, sprain, or strain. The massage treatment could include:

• Light resistance exercise
• Stretching
• Gentle mobilization

Can help deal with hormonal changes

Female athletes tend to experience more hormonal changes than women that are not athletic. This massage helps improve the way the body deals with the changes and relaxes the mind while stimulating the body to release serotonin. When mind and body are relaxed, sleep improves helping to improve mood.

Helps prevent soreness

It helps to prevent muscle soreness after intense exercise or an intense game. It can alleviate discomfort and sore muscles. A session after a workout/game can make a significant difference in how the body feels the next day.

Helps remove toxins from the body

One of the benefits is that it will flush the lymphatic system, which removes toxins from the body. Toxins build up around the joints when they are stimulated through a massage. This allows the lymphatic system to get rid of the toxins. If the lymphatic system is stimulated during the massage, it will drain the toxins faster. This improves recovery time and helps prevent lymphedema or edema.

A combination of massage techniques

This type of massage is more than a single type of massage. This is to create the best chiropractic sports massage for the individual. It can consist of a combination of:

• Cross-fiber massage
• Trigger point massage
• Compression massage
• Deep Swedish massage

What to expect

If new to a chiropractic sports massage there will be a little soreness for up to 48 hours afterward. There might also be a thirsty or weak feeling as the body works to remove toxins and begin the healing process. Taking a hot bath/shower and keeping the body hydrated will help the process.

The difference between a sports and deep tissue massage

If experiencing knots in the muscles, a deep tissue massage could be the best option. This type of massage is designed to untangle knots, tightness, and soreness from a set of muscles caused by overexertion. However, a deep tissue massage could be part of the chiropractic sports massage treatment plan.

Massage time

A chiropractic sports massage can last about an hour, but it could be a short 30-minute session for those that have already gone through the initial treatment and are getting regular therapy. Everyone is different, individuals should discuss which session type works better for them with the massage therapist or chiropractor. Our chiropractor and physical therapy team are highly skilled professionals at addressing the source of pain and using a variety of techniques to help heal the body. A chiropractor can also advise on exercise, stretching programs, and diet to help improve performance and help to prevent further and new injury/s.

InBody

Weight loss leveling off is normal

Everyone goes through weight loss plateaus. In a review published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, researchers found the individuals tend to level off around the 6-month mark. The trials assessed eight different types of weight-loss programs that included:

• Diet alone
• Diet and exercise
• Exercise alone
• Meal replacement
• Very-low-energy diet
• Weight-loss medication
• Advice alone

No matter what strategy is being utilized every individual will hit a plateau. It’s easy to become fixated on the end result. Instead, focus on the journey.

Dr. Alex Jimenez’s Blog Post Disclaimer

The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*

Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*

References

Massage Therapy Industry Fact Sheet. American Massage Therapy Association. https://www.amtamassage.org/infocenter/economic_industry-fact-sheet.html?src=navdropdown. Released February 2017. Accessed May 17, 2017.

Back pain combined with sciatica is the number one cause of temporary disability all over the world. The spine is a complex interconnected system that supports the entire body. Being overweight does not help. Losing weight can help relieve sciatica and prevent future episodes. It can be done through chiropractic health coaching. According to research, overweight individuals have a higher risk of developing sciatica. The more weight the body carries the more stress is placed on the spine and joints, which can irritate/inflame the sciatic nerve.

Causes and Symptoms

To understand how sciatica is affected by the weight of the body one needs to understand how it works. A breakdown of the causes and symptoms.

• The sciatic nerve runs from the lower spine, through the glutes, down the back of the thigh, and is attached under the foot.
• The nerve becomes compressed or irritated where it exits the lower spine. This can be caused by a bulging or herniated disc, narrowing of the spinal canal, or bone spurs.
• Symptoms include a sharp pain that spreads out from the low back and down the back of the leg. It also causes tingling, numbness, and weakness.

Indirect Cause Being Overweight

Being overweight can indirectly cause sciatica. When the body has to support added/extra weight it can cause problems. That extra weight also places tremendous stress on the joints, especially those in the spine. The lower back takes most of the force from this stress, which is how sciatica develops. The stress slowly pulls the spine out of alignment and compresses the discs between the vertebrae, which then compresses the sciatic nerve, causing pain and discomfort.

Sciatica and Weight Loss

Keep in mind that weight loss is not a cure for sciatica. Weight loss will surely help relieve sciatica pain but there are other issues at work that are combined with excess weight and are causing sciatica. Weight loss is only a step in the right direction. The most recommended and effective ways to lose weight and relieve sciatica pain is having a healthy diet, exercise, and chiropractic health coaching. Other things that can be done to relieve sciatic nerve pain include:

• Massage therapy
• Physical therapy
• Home remedies
• Yoga

Exercise With Sciatica

Regular exercise will help reduce the symptoms and strengthen the body's core and leg muscles. There are a variety of things that make sciatica worse like:

• Sitting too much
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Wearing shoes with no support
• Lifting, bending, twisting, reaching, overuse

Exercise is the best antidote to sitting too much and living a sedentary. Exercising with sciatica does not mean a full gym routine but doing the right exercises that will not worsen the condition. The important thing is staying active. Avoiding exercise will only make sciatica worse. For example, yoga is great for sciatica and health in general. A 30-minute session of yoga 3 times a week combined with another form of exercise twice a week can produce optimal results.

Weight Training

Weight training will work with sciatica with certain adjustments and avoiding specific exercises that can cause pain and should be discussed with a doctor, chiropractor, physical therapist depending on the individual's sciatic condition.

Form and Posture

Weight training form is essential. Practice slow repetitions with special attention to physical form. Proper posture, maintaining a neutral spine, and avoiding rounding the lower back will help avoid worsening sciatica, and prevent further injury/s.

Avoid Overhead and Straight Leg Exercises

Not until the sciatica pain reduces avoid overhead lifting exercises and straight leg exercises, as these can cause flare-ups. Also, avoid intensive abdominal exercises that require doing crunches.

Know The Limits

When sciatica is present, the body is in healing mode, the key is to not overdo it. This exercise is minimal, to help in the recovery process, and strengthen the muscles. Too much exercise can prolong the recovery.

Losing Belly Fat

Losing belly fat with sciatica is possible. But it will take a sustained effort that will be well worth it when sciatica. Losing the fat needs concentration on three things:

Nutrition

Eating whole nutritious foods with plenty of vegetables, and staying away from processed and sugary foods. This is where a health coach and nutritionist can offer the greatest recommendations and develop a customized diet/health plan.

Exercise

Weight training, yoga, cardio, or a combination of all is probably best. Whatever regimen is chosen the objective to stick with it.

Lifestyle adjustments

This includes improving posture, workstation set up, adjusting sitting routines, and limiting activities that cause back pain/sciatica.

Chiropractic Health Coaching

The full-body approach outlined is how chiropractic treats sciatica. Chiropractic can relieve the pain quickly with massage, spinal adjustments, and physical therapies. This is why chiropractic health coaching is ideal for those who have a hard time making nutrition, exercise, and lifestyle changes on their own. Numerous studies show that chiropractic promotes weight loss, reduced pain, improved posture, and increased well being. And it is done in a safe, non-invasive, medication-free way.

Body Composition

Eating Out A Significant Contributor For Weight Gain

When eating out, there is a tendency to consume excess empty calories and increase fat storage. This is why preparing food is so important. It gives the individual direct control over what is being consumed and allows trying out different dietary approaches to see which one works best for improving body composition and gut health. Even for those that don’t enjoy cooking, consult a chiropractic health coach to see what options are available.

Dr. Alex Jimenez’s Blog Post Disclaimer

The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*

Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*

References

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (2020.) “Low Back Pain Fact Sheet.” www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Low-Back-Pain-Fact-Sheet

North American Spine Society. (2012.) “Clinical Guidelines for Diagnosis and Treatment of Lumbar Disc Herniation with Radiculopathy.” www.spine.org/Portals/0/assets/downloads/ResearchClinicalCare/Guidelines/LumbarDiscHerniation.pdf

Everyone can agree that they do not have enough time to exercise. When asked why people will not work out, one of the reasons is that due to their hectic lifestyle, the lack of time comes out on top of it all. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends that adults should get between 150 and 300 minutes per of moderate-intensity. There is a way to cut that time commitment in half by opting for high-intensity workouts instead. With high-intensity interval training or HIIT, it is one of the proven ways to reap all the benefits of exercise in less time. Research shows that spending less time doing HIIT may even be better than spending more time doing less intense exercises for individuals.

High-intensity interval training or HIIT alternates explosive bursts of full-throttle efforts with periods of recovery. It can either be rest or a lower-intensity exercise. In many fitness centers and gyms, HIIT workouts often include both cardio and resistance training; however, HIIT workouts can be done as a strictly cardio routine.

Running Shoes: Feet are important. By the time the typical American reaches the age of 50, they will have walked 75,000 miles.

Runners put even more miles on their feet, and stress. Your feet are your foundation. A problem with your feet can throw your entire body out of balance. That is why when it comes to running shoes, it is important to find the right type. This guide will help you find the running shoes that are right for you.

Running Shoes

Before You Shop

Know the type of runner you are.

Different types of running require different features in shoes.

Some questions to consider:

• Do you run or jog?
• What surface do you run on – asphalt, treadmill, or trails?
• How far do you run each week?
• Are you training for a marathon?
• Are you a competitive sprinter?

Know your body type.

A larger person will not move and run the same way a thin, wiry person does. An overweight person will put more stress on their feet – and shoes.

Know your running style.

The way you run, the motion of your stride and how your foot strikes the ground has great bearing on the type of running shoe you need. When your foot comes in contact with the ground, what hits first? Does the inside of your forefoot hit first? The center of your heel? The outside of your heel? Where your foot first hits is where you really want the cushion.

Know what injuries you may have sustained from running.

Plantar fasciitis, shin splints, tendonitis, and blisters are a few common injuries can be reversed or improved when you wear running shoes that fit properly.

Know the type of arch you have.

Whether you supinate (foot rolls to the outside) or pronate (foot rolls to the inside) is determined, at least in part, by the shape of your arch. While supinators are rare, quite a few people over pronate. This can be the source of injuries due to overuse. 

When You Shop

Give it the 360-degree test.

When people try on shoes they typically check for fit in the toe box, but look no further than that. When you try on running shoes, you do need to make sure you have adequate space in the toe box, but you also need to check that your entire foot fits on the shoe’s platform.

Give your foot enough space.

The upper should have enough room but should not be loose. It shouldn’t squeeze your foot either though. It should fit well with no pinching or binding.

Shop later in the day.

Throughout the day your feet swell. When you run they also swell so when you shop for shoes, going when your feet are the largest will help ensure that you get the most accurate and more comfortable fit possible.

Bring your old running shoes along when you shop.

Having your old shoes with you when you shop will help the sales person determine what kind of running shoe you need. They can look at the wear on the shoe to see your running patterns and help you find a shoe that works best for you.

Get your foot measured.

As you age your feet actually change; they can expand or flatten. Don’t every assume your shoe size, get your foot measured every time. A comfortable fit is dependent upon wearing the right size shoe. You also need to keep in mind that shoe sizes may differ from brand to brand.

Dress for the run.

When you are shopping for a new pair of running shoes, dress as you would when you run. Don’t show up wearing flip flops or when you are dressed for the office. Definitely don’t show up without socks.

Forget the latest trend or what’s fashionable; think functionality.

There are plenty of sharp looking shoes, but that doesn’t mean they are the right running shoe for you. Go for fit and functionality first and fashion second.

Take them for a test drive.

Once you have settled on a pair or two, try them both on and try them out. Many stores that specialize in running shoes have a treadmill or area where runners can try their shoes. That is the only way you can tell for shoe if the shoe is right for you.

Injury Medical Clinic: Sport Injury Treatment

Dr. Alex Jimenez and Push Fitness owner, Daniel Alvarado discuss the three points of weight loss as well as why is it essential for people to achieve overall health and wellness.

Three Points of Weight Loss

On today’s podcast Dr. Jimenez DC, health coaches Adriana Caceres and Faith Arciniaga will discuss how the changes in our present lives have changed the way clinical rehabilitation is performed. Today we demonstrate the modern way to get your groove on with fitness and rehabilitation.

Personalized Training

Neck crepitus is a grinding sound that comes from moving or rotating the neck. Usually, it is not something to worry about, as the body is a sound system that generates various noises. For example, when hungry, the stomach rumbles. After digestion, the body releases the gasses through a burp. The bones can also generate neck cracking or popping sounds with regular movements. This unusual sensation is known as crepitus.

Crepitus

Crepitus or crepitation is a scientific term that describes joint movements sounds. Sounds can include:

• Popping
• Cracking
• Snapping
• Grinding

However, crepitus can happen in any moveable joints in the body. An example could be a neck cracking or popping sound when looking over the shoulder.

Why the Neck So Susceptible

The cervical spine consists of seven segments, and each segment has multiple joints that interact with the segments above and below it. The cervical spine is a flexible system that protects the neurologic structures while maintaining head and neck stability. This flexibility and the multiple joints at each level can wear down, leading to arthritis and neck crepitus.

Other Symptoms

Neck crepitus can present without other symptoms. But it can also be associated with other severe symptoms that include:

• Neck pain
• Instability
• Weakness
• Numbness
• Diminished manual dexterity
• Difficulty walking

Risk Increases With Age

Neck crepitus can present at any age; however, the risk increases as the body ages. Some individuals may have neck crepitus symptoms more often. For example, the neck cracking or popping sounds could present just a few times a month. However, other individuals could have cracking, popping sounds daily or even throughout the day. Neck crepitus can increase or decrease in frequency. Symptoms could present for several days before the sensations stop entirely.

Possible Causes

Neck crepitus can have various causes, and multiple factors can also overlap to generate these sensations.

Articular Pressure Changes

Natural lubricating lining and fluid are found within the body's joints. Small gas bubbles can form within the synovial joints, including the facet joints. When the bubbles collapse, they are released, creating cracking noises in the joints. The sounds can happen with regular everyday movements. This also occurs when a chiropractor or physical therapist performs spinal manipulations.

Tendon or Ligament Movement

Tendons are the tissue that connects the muscles to the bones, and Ligaments connect the bones. A tendon in motion can also make noises when sliding around a bone or over another tendon or ligament. The cracking can be caused by tight tissues and muscles from aging or muscles that have become weak/deconditioned.

Bones Grinding

Osteoarthritis, known as spondylosis in the spine, can cause the facet joints that connect the vertebrae to degenerate. The protective cartilage wears down, and the vertebral bones start to rub against each other. This can produce a grinding noise. However, the grinding can result from disc degeneration, which reduces the cushioning between the vertebrae.

When to Consult A Physician

If neck crepitus presents without other symptoms, it's usually not serious. When neck crepitus presents with other symptoms, it is recommended to contact a doctor. These symptoms include:

• Neck pain
• Weakness
• Sensory changes

If pain spreads out and runs down the arm or there is difficulty completing fine motor tasks like writing your name or getting dressed, consult a doctor. These symptoms can be caused by spinal cord or nerve root compression. Sometimes, neck crepitus can show up after a different health issue. For example, if an individual notices neck sounds weeks after cervical spine surgery, the spine surgeon can determine if the two are connected. A recent fall or car accident could also cause symptoms to present. If the crepitus presents almost every time with joint movement, there could be compromised joint function.

Treatment and Prevention

There are various treatment options for neck crepitus. It is recommended to start with conservative treatment like physical therapy and chiropractic pain management. Imaging scans are necessary to see if there are signs of compression on the spinal cord or nerves. Treatment objectives are to remove the pressure from the neural structures and restore the spine's stability. Cervical traction is another form of treatment. Consult a physician, spine specialist, or chiropractor to properly diagnose the issues, figure out what is going on, and develop a personalized treatment plan if necessary.

Body Composition

Sugar Replacements

Sugar substitutes can help with weight control and diabetes by allowing individuals to eat sweets without raising blood sugar levels. Sugar replacements are additives that add sweetness to food without the calories of sugar. Some sugar substitutes are synthetically made, while others are natural. Sugar replacements include:

Sucralose

• This artificial sweetener comes from sucrose and contains no calories. It is highly sweeter than sugar and can be found in grocery stores.

Fructose

• This sweetener comes in crystalline form or high-fructose corn syrup, which is often used for baking. Fructose is sweeter than sugar and has been linked to early diabetes.

Stevia

• This sweetener is extracted from the stevia rebaudiana plant species. It is calorie-free and can help manage and improve cholesterol levels.

Aspartame

•  Only a tiny amount is necessary, as this artificial sweetener is 200 times sweeter than sugar. It contains four calories per gram.
• Aspartame has been associated with cancer, dementia, and depression. But research has not found a direct correlation, and currently, recommended amounts are safe to consume.

General Disclaimer *

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional, licensed physician, and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request.

We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

References

Mohamad, I et al. “Swollen neck and crepitus after bouts of cough.” Malaysian family physician: the official journal of the Academy of Family Physicians of Malaysia vol. 8,3 49-50. 31 Dec. 2013

Nguyen, Andrew B et al. “Crepitus: an uncommon complication of a common procedure.” The Annals of thoracic surgery vol. 91,4 (2011): e63. doi:10.1016/j.athoracsur.2011.01.031

High school football takes a toll on the body. The sport can cause all kinds of injuries that can range from mild - severe. Areas that are commonly injured include:

• Head
• Neck
• Shoulder
• Arms
• Hands
• Spine
• Legs
• Knees
• Ankles
• Feet

Chiropractic has become a medically recommended form of treatment and rehabilitation for these injuries but also injury prevention. Today all NFL teams utilize a chiropractic team for players and staff. College teams are also discovering the benefits that chiropractic offers. There are significant benefits that high school football players can attain from chiropractic care.

Enhanced Mobility

A chiropractic adjustment, technically known as chiropractic manipulative treatment/CMT, is a primary therapy in sports medicine. It helps to increase flexibility and minimize or eliminate pain during motion/movement. Adjustments have been shown to improve athletic performance.

Injury Prevention

Athletes who regularly use chiropractic experience a decline in sports-related injuries.

Treatment increases flexibility and mobility, allowing for optimal agility that has been linked to preventing injuries. This is because the body is relaxed and stays loose, even when tackled, instead of tensing up, which is a major contributor to strains and injuries. 

Enhanced Strength

Chiropractic adjustments also help increase muscular strength, making the body stronger, and more resistant to injury. It has been shown to promote strength in the muscles after a few sessions effectively. The strengthened muscles also help avoid injury by being able to withstand the hits and recover faster. The strengthened body also helps to increase endurance and stamina.

Pain Relief

Many high school players use chiropractic to ease the general pain that comes from general practice and games. Adjustments and massage are highly effective for pain management and alleviate headaches, especially those that come from constant impact to the head and neck. It helps to alleviate soreness, stiffness, and pain from the entire body.

Sports Hernia

Athletes often experience athletic pubalgia. This is one of the most common causes of injury-related groin pain. Chiropractic can relieve the discomfort within 8 weeks in combination with rehabilitative stretches and exercises. Chiropractic plays a critical role in whole-body care, pain relief and keeps the body operating and performing at the highest level.

Body Composition

Water Intoxication

When an individual overwhelms their body’s ability to excrete water and waste products consumed, water intoxication can develop. Water intoxication causes disturbances in the body's electrolyte balance. This can cause a life-threatening condition known as hyponatremia. With a rapid decrease in the sodium levels in the blood, relative to the amount of water, symptoms can develop rapidly:

• Early symptoms include:
• Confusion
• Disorientation
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Changes in mental state
• Symptoms of psychosis
• If left untreated, later symptoms can develop into: 
• Seizures
• Coma
• Death

General Disclaimer *

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional, licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request.

We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

References

Hession, E F, and G D Donald. “Treatment of multiple lumbar disk herniations in an adolescent athlete utilizing flexion distraction and rotational manipulation.” Journal of manipulative and physiological therapeutics vol. 16,3 (1993): 185-92.

Pritchett, J W. “A statistical study of physician care patterns in high school football injuries.” The American journal of sports medicine vol. 10,2 (1982): 96-9. doi:10.1177/036354658201000206

Shane, Eric R et al. “Sports chiropractic management of concussions using the Sports Concussion Assessment Tool 2 symptom scoring, serial examinations, and graded return to play protocol: a retrospective case series.” Journal of chiropractic medicine vol. 12,4 (2013): 252-9. doi:10.1016/j.jcm.2013.08.001

When back pain presents for a prolonged period, the back muscles reduce mass but increase fat content, resulting in more stiffness. This leads to chronic muscle fatigue and results in chronic pain symptoms. Adding resistance to a workout routine in weight machines, free weights, and/or resistance bands helps reduce back pain. Studies have shown that specific therapeutic back muscle weight training is safe and can help relieve pain. A sports chiropractic specialist can recommend appropriate exercises for individuals and their specific condition/s to safely participate in strength training.

Back muscles development

With time, back pain and increased fatigue can lead to a fear of moving the body and engaging in physical activity. This results in spinal deconditioning and instability. Weight training works on incrementally/progressively increasing the load that the back muscles can tolerate. This technique gradually improves the body's ability and strength to perform regular daily activities without strain and in optimal fashion. Weight training improves whole-body health because:

• Back muscles and core muscles increase in function and performance.
• Muscles are strengthened.
• Lean muscle mass increases.
• The range of motion of the spine increases.
• Body fat decreases.

Guidelines while using weights

It is important to understand safety guidelines to help relieve back pain and not worsen or cause further injury when weight training. Weighted treatment exercises are for individuals that have been cleared by their physician or chiropractor and are specific to their injury and /or condition. Depending on the underlying pain source, weight training may not be suitable for individuals that have:

• Severe pain.
• Back pain that originates from:
• Previous spinal surgery
• Tumor
• Nerve root compression
• Neurological symptoms
• Sciatica
• Spinal fracture/s
• Spinal infection/s

Medical professionals and chiropractors can accurately diagnose and determine if weight training is safe and which specific exercises to perform. Guidance from a trained therapist or therapeutic trainer is recommended for optimal results.

• Weight training techniques to alleviate back pain are different from regular weight or resistance exercises.
• Trained physical/occupational therapists and sports chiropractors can educate an individual on:
• Correct techniques
• Frequency
• Type of training that will help an individual's condition.
• Therapeutic training can significantly reduce the risk of further injury and damage to the spine.
• After initial training, individuals are encouraged to exercise to maintain back muscles and total body health.

Smaller weights build strength progressively

Effective ways to strengthen the spine.

• Begin with small/light weights and exercise slowly.
• Fast rapid movements or incorrect lifting and pulling techniques can cause additional damage to the tissues.
• It is recommended to start with:
• Low-load motor control exercises without weights activate and stretch the muscles and improve balance.
• Simple stretches

Exercise machines can be recommended instead of free weights.

• Exercise machines can provide safe, effective, and progressive resistance to the exercises.
• The machines can help reduce/prevent injury compared to free weights.
• The machines can maintain proper support on the back and spine.

It is recommended to combine regular walking activity with a weight training program.

• Low impact aerobic exercises increase blood circulation along with essential nutrients to the muscles and soft tissues.
• This promotes healing and reduces stiffness.

Training program and benefits

Gaining the most benefits from strength training, tips to keep in mind:

• Warm up for a few minutes using heat therapy and simple stretches. 
• Try for 2 or 3 times a week for 30 minutes.
• Focus on building strength in the core muscles - back, abdominals, obliques, buttocks, and pelvic leg muscles.
• There is no need to join a gym or buy expensive equipment.
• Work out at home with small hand weights, resistance bands, and body weight.
• The therapist or chiropractor will inform the individual on which exercises to avoid, which require extreme or quick moves.
• Slow, steady resistance training takes advantage of muscle lengthening exercises and muscle shortening exercises for strengthening.
• If back pain presents with a sustained increase, take time off or modify the strength training exercises.
• Some soreness is to be expected, but sharp pain is not. If any sharp, sudden pain presents while exercising, stop immediately.
• Ice therapy can be beneficial after exercising to decrease inflammation and alleviate pain.

Record the amount of weight when beginning the training and note when progressing to a heavier weight. Consistent improvements in pain, flexibility, strength, and function will help maintain motivation. Consult with a professional sports injury chiropractor today to see if weight training is a suitable and safe treatment.

Body Composition

Carbohydrates and Muscle Growth

Simple carbs are a quick, periodic source of energy. Complex carbs are a recommended source of steady energy. Complex carbs are not as readily available for immediate energy as simple carbs are but are more efficient and healthier. Complex carbs offer sustainable energy, meaning the energy is constant with no crash like simple carbs. Because complex carbs have slow-release properties, they should be the largest component of daily energy consumption.

Carbs prevent muscle weakness.

Some glycogen is stored in the muscles. When those muscles are used during exercise, the body taps into the glycogen stores in that specific muscle. Lifting weights with the arms, for example, access the glycogen in the biceps. Athletes take advantage of glycogen by loading up on carbs by consuming a day or more before a workout. This maximizes the muscle glycogen stores. This delays muscle fatigue, making for a better workout and stronger muscles, and can improve athletic performance.

Carbs help muscles recover after exercise.

Recovery goes back to the glycogen stores. Right after exercising, the body needs to replenish its glycogen stores to prevent glycogen depletion. Glycogen depletion, when the stores run out, causes gluconeogenesis. What happens is the body forms glucose from new sources. This is to compensate for the lack of glucose from carbohydrates. This is when the body turns to sources like fat and protein to fill the need. Protein is the last line of defense when energy is required, meaning that energy is running low. When the body breaks down protein for glucose production, it takes what it needs from the muscle/s, causing them to shrink and break down.

General Disclaimer *

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional, licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request.

We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

References

Dreisinger TE. Exercise in the management of chronic back pain. Ochsner J. 2014;14(1):101–107.

Lee JS, Kang SJ. Strength exercise and walking affect lumbar function, pain level, and body composition in chronic back pain patients. J Exerc Rehabil. 2016;12(5):463–470. Published 2016 Oct 31. doi:10.12965/jer.1632650.325

Michaelson P, Holmberg D, Aasa B, Aasa U. High load lifting exercise and low load motor control exercises as interventions for patients with mechanical low back pain: A randomized controlled trial with 24-month follow-up. J Rehabil Med. 2016;48(5):456-63.

Welch N, Moran K, Antony J, et al. The effects of a free-weight-based resistance training intervention on pain, squat biomechanics, and MRI-defined lumbar fat infiltration and functional cross-sectional area in those with chronic low back. BMJ Open Sport Exerc Med. 2015;1(1):e000050. Published 2015 Nov 9. doi:10.1136/bmjsem-2015-000050

APT is short for anterior pelvic tilt.  APT is when the pelvis tilts more down than forward, which can cause strain on the surrounding muscles and the spine to hold the torso up. The body's own anatomical structure causing the condition and/or part of a bad habit that an individual has grown accustomed to. This can be from injury/s, back, and/or hip pain causing an individual to take on awkward postures to compensate for the discomfort and try and avoid it. However, these unhealthy postures cause their own set of musculoskeletal problems. Addressing this form of poor posture can help reduce and alleviate low back and hip pain and prevent further injuries.  Chiropractic can pinpoint an anterior pelvic tilt and fix it.

Anterior Pelvic Tilt

What happens is the pelvis becomes tilted or rotated forward. Place the hands, specifically the fingertips, on the hips. There are bone ridges. These are the iliac crests. If they’re facing more toward the ground than directly forward, this could be an anterior pelvic tilt. It usually happens when the hip flexors become tight and pull the pelvis down. Another contributor is the glute and hamstring muscles have weakened and are not strong enough to counteract the forward pulling. This can be caused by sitting for long periods, poor posture, and for women who wear high heels regularly. These contribute to tightening the hip flexors and the glutes, hamstrings, and core muscles.

An anterior pelvic tilt causes an increase in the curve of the lower back. It can feel like the hip flexors are tightening up. It typically affects the lower back at the lowest two levels, which are L4-5 and L5-S1. There can be long-term issues if an anterior pelvic tilt is left untreated. The spine becomes more vulnerable to disc issues that can include:

• Compressed degenerative disc
• Disc tears, aka annular tears
• Disc bulges
• Herniation

Exercises

An anterior pelvic tilt is a repairable condition. Several exercises can help loosen/relax the hip flexors and strengthen the core and posterior muscle chain. This in addition to walking and reducing wearing high heels regularly. A few exercises for anterior pelvic tilt.

The Tail Tuck

This is literally trying to tilt the tailbone forward, like tucking in an imaginary tail. This can be done for 10-12 reps and up to 3 times.

Plank

Core-strengthening exercises can help with all types of back and hip problems. If possible, do the exercises in front of a mirror to ensure no arching of the back or the butt sticking out. If it is too difficult on the hands, go to the elbows. If there are wrist or shoulder issues, planks can be done on a raised surface, like a table or couch. Hold as long as possible, maintaining proper form. Start with 10-30 seconds and build up to minutes.

Strengthening the Glutes

It is recommended to strengthen the glute muscles. This can be done with exercises like clams or side-stepping with resistance bands. For clams, lie on the side and raise each leg up and down 10-12 times, up to 3 sets. For side-stepping, place resistance bands around the ankle/shin area and step to the side for 8-10 steps. Then go the other direction for the same number of steps. Repeat up to 3 sets.

Hip Flexor Stretch

Lunge forward while standing or lunge and kneel with the other leg on the ground. Then move the torso back a little and engage the core to stretch the hip flexors in the front of the thigh/pelvis area. Hold for 30 seconds, then release. Repeat 3-5 times per leg.

Lifestyle

These exercises can help, but if there is no progress around a month, contact a qualified chiropractor or physical therapist for further instruction and supervision. Also, if any neurological symptoms present like:

• Sciatica
• Shooting pain
• Numbness
• Tingling
• Weakness
• See a doctor as soon as possible.

Fixing posture-related problems require individuals to learn to be posture aware along with making some lifestyle adjustments. One way to do these exercises is to tack them onto a workout. Also, set reminders on a calendar to get up, stretch, and move around if sitting most of the day.

Body Composition Health

Difference between Processed sugar and Natural sugar

There are different types of sugar. There are natural sugars that are found in:

• Fruits
• Vegetables
• Nuts
• Whole grains
• Beans

All sugar is broken down into glucose. However, foods that contain natural sugar are also rich in nutrients, including:

• Vitamins
• Minerals
• Fiber
• Protein
• All which the body requires for optimal health.

Natural sugar does not lead to excess sugar intake; it happens with processed sugar. Processed sugar is extracted from sugarcane or sugar beet and is normally found as sucrose. This is present in cakes, cookies, cereal, and beverages. Processed sugar is also hidden in foods that are not sweet, like:

• Microwave meals
• Spaghetti sauce
• Low-fat yogurt
• Ketchup
• Sports drinks

Foods that contain processed sugar are an energy source, but they contain little or no nutrients and can cause blood sugar levels to spike. In addition, consuming too much sugar is linked to an increased risk of:

• Diabetes
• Accelerated aging
• Weight gain

Research has found that added sugar contributes to around 17% of the total calorie intake for adults. The recommended daily amount of calories from added sugar is 10%.

General Disclaimer *

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional or licensed physician and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. In addition, we provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request.

We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP*, CIFM*, ATN*

email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com

Licensed in: Texas & New Mexico*

References

Azaïs-Braesco, Véronique et al. “A review of total & added sugar intakes and dietary sources in Europe.” Nutrition journal vol. 16,1 6. 21 Jan. 2017, doi:10.1186/s12937-016-0225-2

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (May 2020) “Acute Low Back Pain” https://www.cdc.gov/acute-pain/low-back-pain/index.html

National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. (March 2020) “Low Back Pain Fact Sheet” https://www.ninds.nih.gov/Disorders/Patient-Caregiver-Education/Fact-Sheets/Low-Back-Pain-Fact-Sheet

Orlando Health. (2019) “Bad Posture Often to Blame for Chronic Pain and Health Issues, But Survey Finds Too Few Americans Are Concerned” https://www.orlandohealth.com/content-hub/bad-posture-often-to-blame-for-chronic-pain-and-health-issues

The spine interconnects the entire body transmitting and receiving messages from the brain allowing for coordinated movement. Maintaining optimal spinal health requires some form of regular physical activity that counts as exercise. There are diverse ways to keep the spine at its healthiest. This includes:

• Stress management
• Healthy weight
• Proper posture
• Regular exercise
• Adequate hydration
• Healthy diet

Exercising and the benefits of exercise for spinal health.

Exercise Increases Spine Health

Regular exercise maintains spinal health and boosts the spine’s durability. Here are a few ways:

• Core strength for the stability of the spine is increased
• The flexibility of the spine increases without strain when moving around
• Poor movement patterns that shift the spine out of alignment decrease
• An improved posture that minimizes unnecessary pressure on the spinal joints and nerves
• The body’s natural endorphins are released and properly circulate to provide natural pain relief
• Increased blood circulation to the spine prevents injuries and helps flush toxins
• Improved health of essential tissues like the discs, ligaments, nerve roots, and the cord

Regular body movement improves the quality of life and spinal health. This is because, like a high-quality engine, all the body's systems are activated and operate at optimal levels.

Guidance

Individuals do exercise but often it is not getting enough exercise that contributes to declining health. Reasons for not getting enough physical activity are related to:

• Pain
• Fatigue
• Motivation or lack thereof
• Not enough time
• Not sure what to do
• Results don't show quick enough

For individuals experiencing generalized fatigue, pain, or problems staying active, the guidance of a sports/fitness chiropractor can make a significant difference.

Chiropractors Can Help

When spinal health is in top form the body can function at its absolute best. A fitness and sports chiropractor can inform/educate an individual, and based on their specific needs, on what type of exercise stretching regimen would benefit them the most. When the spine is in proper alignment, the motivation falls into place for maximizing an individual's exercise routine and spinal health long-term.

Body Composition

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is the most well-known immune-supporting vitamin. It is an antioxidant that reduces free radicals and protects from oxidative damage that can cause chronic diseases. Vitamin C deficiency can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases-CVDs, which include:

• Coronary heart disease
• Ischemic stroke
• Hypertension

Vitamin C plays an essential role in collagen synthesis which helps reduce inflammation and inflammatory diseases. Studies have shown that vitamin C could help lower blood pressure. Vitamin C could also help prevent obesity and related illnesses. Sources of Vitamin C include:

• Tomatoes
• Peppers
• Citrus fruit
• Strawberries
• Sour cherries
• Broccoli

Disclaimer

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional, licensed physician, and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the musculoskeletal system’s injuries or disorders. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP, CIFM, CTG*
email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com
phone: 915-850-0900
Licensed in Texas & New Mexico

References

Garber CE, Blissmer B, Deschenes MR, Franklin BA, et al. American College of Sports Medicine position stand. Quantity and quality of exercise for developing and maintaining cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal, and neuromotor fitness in apparently healthy adults: guidance for prescribing exercise. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2011;43(7):1334-1359.

McGill SM, Childs A, Liebenson C. Endurance times for low back stabilization exercises: clinical targets for testing and training from a normal database. Arch Phys Med Rehabil. 1999;80(8):941-944.

McGill SM. Low back stability: from formal description to issues for performance and rehabilitation. Exerc Sport Sci Rev. 2001;29(1):26-31.

Yang EJ, Park WB, Shin HI, Lim JY. The effect of back school integrated with core strengthening in patients with chronic low-back pain. Am J Phys Med Rehabil. 2010;89(9):744-754. doi: 10.1097/PHM.0b013e3181e72239.

The deadlift is a weight training exercise that helps build muscle, strength, and stamina. It works legs, core, buttocks, and the back when performed correctly. Using an improper form or overdoing it can cause injury to the lower back. Recovering from a deadlifting injury usually takes a couple of days or a week. However, this depends on the severity of the injury. Recovery can be helped through:

• Home remedies
• Chiropractic treatment
• Massage
• Natural back pain relief tips

Back Injury After Deadlifting

Most individuals will feel sore after a strenuous workout. But there is a difference between soreness and injury. Most of the time injuries from deadlifts are caused by not using proper form. Getting the form right is not easy, it does take practice, so do not feel bad if an injury presents.

Soreness vs Injury

Most of the time telling the difference between natural soreness from a workout and pain from an injury is pretty straightforward. But sometimes it is not as easy to tell the difference. Soreness is typically characterized by:

• Stiffness
• Tightness
• Muscle ache
• Fades after two or three days

Muscle soreness tends to be shallow and spread out over a muscle group. Pain from an injury causes sharp and persistent pain, especially with certain movements. Injury pain is deeper and can be described as stabbing or sharp.

Common Deadlifting Injuries

The deadlift has a wide range of motion and incorporates several different joints. Most injuries sustained during a deadlift are low-back injuries. Usually a sprain or a strain. But it is possible to sustain a more serious injury like a herniated disc.

Sprains vs Strains

Sprains and strains are different although many use the terms interchangeably.

• A sprain happens when the ligaments that hold a joint together tear.
• A strain happens when the muscles tear or are overworked to the point of injury.

Herniated Disc

A herniated disc happens when the gel-like fluid cushion between the vertebrae begins to protrude out. This can cause pain from the disc pressing on surrounding nerves or go unnoticed. Fortunately, sprains, strains, and herniated discs can all be treated conservatively. Seeing a medical professional is recommended to rule out serious conditions.

Injury Lower Back Pop

Some individuals experience an audible pop in the spine during a deadlift. For those that experience a pop but no pain accompanying it, it is likely gas escaping from a joint in the back. Those that experience discomfort or pain with the popping are encouraged to seek out medical attention.

Healing a Back Injury

Healing a back injury depends on the severity. The more severe, the longer it will take to heal. Most injuries can be addressed at home. Individuals that cannot stand up straight or there is debilitating pain with normal movements should see a medical professional like a:

• Physical therapist
• Chiropractor
• Physician

Rest and let the body recover

It can be tempting to get back to the gym as soon as possible, but this is not recommended until the back truly feels normal. It is recommended to rest for a few days, allowing any swelling, inflammation to go down.

Ice and heat

Applying ice to the back every few hours for 15 to 20 minutes is recommended for the first three days, then heat can be incorporated. After three days if there is still pain, incorporate heat to get more blood flowing in and around the area. Use the ice for 15 to 20 minutes, wait 30 minutes, then apply the heat for 15 minutes.

Chiropractor

Seeing a chiropractor during any stage of recovery can be beneficial. As chiropractors are musculoskeletal specialists that can realign the body back to its proper form. If four days or more have passed and the pain is not going away, make an appointment with a certified chiropractor or spine specialist.

Time of Recovery

Most individuals recover within a week or two. For more severe injuries, like a herniated disc can take 6 to 8 weeks. Seeing a medical professional can help speed the process and promote healing. Additional tips include:

• Setting up the bed for back injury recovery
• Anti-inflammatory diet
• Gentle stretching
• Avoiding lifting heavy objects
• Maintaining proper posture

Safety

Deadlifting can be done safely and properly without sustaining an injury. A personal trainer or a sports chiropractor can analyze an individual's lifting form and offer recommendations to prevent injury.

Body Composition

Foods Good for Collagen Production

Healthy nutrition can facilitate optimal collagen synthesis without supplementation. Protein sources that work with non-essential amino acids contribute to increased collagen production. High-quality protein sources support this process. Vegetarian protein sources include legumes or tofu are good alternatives. Collagen synthesis requires vitamin C, copper, and zinc.

• Vitamin C regulates the synthesis pathway
• Zinc stimulates the body to produce more collagen
• Copper activates an enzyme that helps mature/strengthen the collagen
• Sources of copper include nuts, seeds, whole grains, and chocolate

Most importantly is plenty of vitamin C-rich foods like:

• Bell peppers
• Broccoli
• Citrus fruits
• Leafy greens
• Tomatoes

Disclaimer

The information herein is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified health care professional, licensed physician, and is not medical advice. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based on your research and partnership with a qualified health care professional. Our information scope is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, sensitive health issues, functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We provide and present clinical collaboration with specialists from a wide array of disciplines. Each specialist is governed by their professional scope of practice and their jurisdiction of licensure. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for the musculoskeletal system’s injuries or disorders. Our videos, posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate to and support, directly or indirectly, our clinical scope of practice.* Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We provide copies of supporting research studies available to regulatory boards and the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation of how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.

Dr. Alex Jimenez DC, MSACP, CCST, IFMCP, CIFM, CTG*
email: coach@elpasofunctionalmedicine.com
phone: 915-850-0900
Licensed in Texas & New Mexico

References

Bengtsson, Victor et al. “Narrative review of injuries in powerlifting with special reference to their association to the squat, bench press and deadlift.” BMJ open sport & exercise medicine vol. 4,1 e000382. 17 Jul. 2018, doi:10.1136/bmjsem-2018-000382

Core strength training helps manage back pain: Journal of Physical Therapy Science (March 2015) “Core strength training for patients with chronic low back pain.” https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/jpts/27/3/27_jpts-2014-564/_article/-char/ja/

Millions of Americans experience back pain each day: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (2020) “Acute Low Back Pain.” https://www.cdc.gov/acute-pain/low-back-pain/

Free weights come with a greater risk of injury, compared to machines: National Strength and Conditioning Association (December 2000) “Roundtable Discussion: Machines Versus Free Weights.” http://citeseerx.ist.psu.edu/viewdoc/download?doi=10.1.1.451.9285&rep=rep1&type=pdf

High-intensity interval training or bodybuilding? Getting to the gym, choosing a strength-training method, and figuring out which method is right for you can be frustrating and confusing. With all of the options available, there’s just no easy way to figure out which training regimen is right.

Here are two of the most popular training methods broken down. The principles behind each training method and how they influence body composition. The journey to getting healthy goes a lot smoother when knowing which training program will help reach optimal fitness goals.

Not all training programs are the same

Bodybuilding is about physical appearance. This means big muscles and low body fat which is accomplished by heavyweight training workouts. High-Intensity Interval Training/HIIT workouts focus on performing high-intensity exercises in large volume repetitions quickly to raise an individual's heart rate, cycling between high intensity and rest. This is accomplished by using:

• Light weights
• Bodyweight
• Cardio exercises

It’s important to understand that different training methods will affect body composition differently. Body composition is about painting an accurate picture of what’s going on in the body. The key is to break down:

• What each training program looks like
• What it does
• How to choose the program that’s best for the individual
• Gaining Lean Body Mass
• Losing Fat Mass

Bodybuilding

Bodybuilding at its core is about gaining muscle while minimizing body fat. Minimizing fat is a key to building a muscular-defined physique, and requires a detailed focus on protein and calorie intake. It is the emphasis on aesthetically increasing muscle size and reducing body fat. Bodybuilders focus on higher reps and lighter-weight workouts. This encourages muscle hypertrophy. Other factors in bodybuilding are:

• Adequate cardio
• Consistent protein intake
• Calorie restrictions
• These are important aspects of this type of regimen and building visually impressive musculature.

This impressive musculature is not only for looks, as it can help with fat loss as well. This is because resistance training/weight training can burn a lot of calories and lose a substantial amount of fat. A study by the Department of Exercise Science showed that 10 weeks of resistance training can reduce fat weight by 1.8kg and increase resting metabolic rate by 7%.

Body Composition

For the average person, if the focus is on building visible muscle while keeping a low body fat percentage, bodybuilding is a great choice. Ideal body composition focuses on keeping fat content to a minimum without compromise.

High-Intensity Interval Training/HIIT

Modern training programs like CrossFit utilize HIIT-style workouts. HIIT burns calories through workouts that significantly increase heart rate. The exercises are short, loaded with mini-breaks in between high-intensity sets designed to test cardio. The focus is on high repetitions. However, HIIT workouts are so intense that professional trainers recommend individuals only train 2-3 times a week, to avoid overstressing the body. There are bodybuilding exercises included like:

• Squats
• Push-ups
• Tricep dips

However, they are done with different goals in mind. The priority of a HIIT workout is to reduce fat, improve cardio, and developing some muscle.

Body Composition

Scientists from Ohio State University observed more than 40 subjects at all levels of cardio fitness. Over the next 10 weeks, the subjects completed a variety of HIIT workouts. The scientists realized that the individuals were developing a more capable cardio system, and their body fat percentages were dropping significantly.

• If the goal is to get stronger and lose weight, then bodybuilding is the best option.
• If the goal is to have stronger cardio and lose serious weight then HIIT workouts are the best option.

No matter what training program is chosen. Remember that achieving a healthy body composition that the individual feels comfortable with is the most important thing. Making positive changes and achieving optimal health is the objective. Both workout strategies can be incorporated into a regular strength training regimen. Both training methods can be challenging, but the health benefits are absolutely worth it. Contact us today to help figure out which training regimen will achieve optimal health.

InBody

Dr. Alex Jimenez’s Blog Post Disclaimer

The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*

Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*

References

Ross, Leanna M et al. “High-intensity interval training (HIIT) for patients with chronic diseases.” Journal of sport and health science vol. 5,2 (2016): 139-144. doi:10.1016/j.jshs.2016.04.005

Westcott, Wayne L. “Resistance training is medicine: effects of strength training on health.” Current sports medicine reports vol. 11,4 (2012): 209-16. doi:10.1249/JSR.0b013e31825dabb8

The core and the muscles involved are a group of muscles that wrap around the body's torso. The front, back, and sides. Strengthening these muscles will improve and ultimately alleviate lower back pain. One of the main muscles that are overlooked is the transverse abdominis muscle. It is vital to a healthy core, especially if back pain is presenting. It's known as the seatbelt muscle as it is deep in the abdomen and wraps around the waist. It has everything to do with long-term core strength and function. A properly developed transverse abdominus functions like a lumbar support belt that protects the spine. When the transverse abdominus is strong the muscle contracts to generate the correct amount of support and stability when in motion.

For example, individuals that do not have low back pain engage the transverse abdominus around 30 milliseconds before moving the shoulder, while individuals that have low back pain have a delayed contraction of the transverse abdominus muscles that makes them take on awkward postures, and move in an awkward fashion contributing to back pain and continuing to weaken the core muscles. Individuals that regularly do transverse abdominus strengthening exercises greatly reduce the risk of experiencing low back pain for the first time and reduce the recurrence of those already with back pain.

Core Muscle Anatomy

The first step to strengthening is understanding the moves and how to do them correctly with basic anatomy. Think of the core as a muscle box where the:

• The front is the abdominals
• The back is the spinal stabilizing muscles
• The base is the pelvic floor
• The top is the diaphragm
• The sides are the hip muscles

The core moves in three ways:

• The body flexes and extends whenever bending forward and standing up
• The body does a lateral side bend when bending the trunk to one side
• The body rotates the trunk when twisting the torso

Muscle Weakness

The transverse abdominus tends to suffer from neglect which is one reason why it becomes weakened. This increases the risk of developing back pain. Another reason is that individuals have a weak muscle is they exercise in one-plane of movement. Not working out the core muscles in all planes of motion can contribute to back pain. For example, if an individual performs pelvic tilts, they are only moving in one plane when tilting the hips forward and back, known as flexion and extension. To achieve optimal/functional strength, the core workout needs to include side bending and twisting movements.

Strengthening The Transverse Abdominus

Pigeon Pose

Many individuals sit for extended amounts of time and are excessively tight along the sides and hips. The first step should be to increase the hip's mobility before strengthening the core. If the hip muscle's fibers become shortened, it can affect hip joint function and efficiency during core movement. The Pigeon Pose is a hip opener. How to do it:

• Get on the floor with the knees and palms on the ground.
• Slide the left leg back so the hip is extended, then externally rotate the right hip/turn the right leg out from the hip. Focus on positioning the right shin perpendicular to the body.
• Extend the trunk so the body is upright, lifting the chest, arching the back, and looking toward the ceiling, while resting the fingertips on the floor a little forward of the hips.
• Hold the pose for 30 seconds and switch sides.
• This stretches the hip flexor muscles in the extended leg and the rotator and outer hip muscles in the flexed leg.

Pay Attention To The Engaged Muscles

Individuals can train the transverse muscles to activate faster and more effectively throughout the day by slowing down and paying attention to moving with more intent. Place the hands around the waist and engage the core to feel the muscles contracting. This will help get a feel for the movement. Once comfortable remember to engage these abdominal muscles before and while reaching, twisting, or lifting items.

Pelvic Tilt

This exercise is vital for building the smaller muscles that support a healthy core. How to do it:

• Lie on back with knees bent and feet on the floor.
• Engage the transverse muscles and gently tilt the pelvis upward.
• Return the pelvis to a neutral position.
• Repeat.
• Start with 3 sets of 10-12 reps.

When this is no longer challenging and can be completed without increasing back pain, advance to more challenging exercises like the bird dog, planks, or plank variations.

Standing Exercises

Translating core strength into functional strength and pain-free movement progresses to standing exercises that require rotation. One example is a standing lunge with rotation. How to do it:

• Get into a lunge stance with the front leg flexed 90 degrees at the hip, knee, and ankle. The rear leg should be extended at the hip with the knee touching or almost touching the floor.
• Twist from the waist. When comfortable doing this movement, hold weight like a dumbbell, medicine ball, or gallon jug of water in both hands, and gradually increase the weight as the muscles get stronger.

When in the process of strengthening the core, consistency is the key. Commit to a short workout every day instead of one massive workout once or twice a week. Ten minutes a day is enough to build strength, improve function, and decrease back pain.

Improved Body Composition

Functional fitness and the ability to move about comfortably not only benefit physical wellness but also improves body composition. The aging process reduces the metabolic rate, which leads to increased body fat. Lean Body Mass gets lost from age and inactivity. Lean Body Mass contributes to the overall Basal Metabolic Rate, also known as the body's metabolism. It is the number of calories the body needs to support essential functions. Engaging in strength training or resistance exercises will help regain the muscle loss from aging/inactivity, and can lead to an increase in lean body mass.

Dr. Alex Jimenez’s Blog Post Disclaimer

The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*

Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*

References

People who regularly engaged in TVA-strengthening exercises were less likely to experience a recurrence of low back pain: Australian Journal of Physiotherapy (2002), “Specific spinal exercise substantially reduces the risk of low back pain recurrence” https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S000495141460283X?via%3Dihub

Doctors tell us to exercise, get fit, get moving, but they don’t give us options. If you are going to the gym but are short on time, not much gets done.

Exercising at home might be limited for space or tripping over kids, and do you want your husband/wife watching you sweat and gasp struggling through an insane workout video?

Walking is good, but if you are in a neighborhood that doesn’t have sidewalks or is too hot outside, just how likely are you to get up and do it?

Suppose you could get all your exercising done in 7 minutes. Would you do it? Is it possible?

Definitely!

7 minutes 12 moves

An article published in the Health & Fitness Journal for the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) takes everything we’ve learned about exercise and turns it upside down. Just 12 exercises in 7 minutes is all it takes to get fit, according to these fitness experts.

Nowhere are there heavy weights or fancy equipment, just a wall, a chair, and the person’s body weight. Say hello to high-intensity interval training- it’s about to change your world!

This 7-minute workout is the equivalent of a serious weight training session and long run but without the weights or the running. That isn’t to say it is easy though. It requires a great deal of effort.

There’s a lot packed into those 7 minutes. It provides many of the benefits that are achieved by disciplined, long term endurance training; it just skips over the long-term part.

Make no mistake though, short does not mean it is easy – or pleasant. In fact, it may be one of the longer 7 minutes of your life.

The good news is, it’s over in 7 minutes. That’s a little more than 5 but less than 10.

It’s worth it though when you look at the numerous health benefits that exercise provides. Plus, it’s great for people who are super busy and can’t seem to squeeze a workout into their schedules. Say hello to no more excuses!

The Science Behind the 7

These 12 exercises were not chosen at random. The reason it works is rooted in some pretty deep science. When you exercise for even a few minutes and are operating at or near your maximum capacity (that means you are working very hard), it causes your muscles to experience molecular changes that are much like those that occur after several hours of riding a bike or running.

Interval training takes it a step farther. You engage in an intense activity, then have a brief recovery period, then back to a high-intensity exercise. That is the basis of this workout.

Each exercise should be done for about 30 seconds with a 10 second recovery period - but there’s a twist that ups the effectiveness even more. The exercises are arranged so that they engage the large muscles in the upper body, then in the lower body.

This alternating focus on muscle groups is essential because while the lower body is working like crazy, the upper body can be catching its breath. This makes for a much more efficient workout, but it is also why the order of the exercises is critical.

The exercises are intense but are movements that just about anyone can do. Many can also be adapted for people at different fitness levels. If you are looking for a great workout that will work for you but won’t eat up a lot of your time, you just might have found it.

Sports Injuries Rehabilitation | El Paso, Tx